Ridgewood teenager charged with intent to distribute marijuana

A Ridgewood teen is facing drug possession charges that include intent to distribute marijuana, after village police observed him and two others allegedly smoking the substance.

According to police, Chief John Ward and Sgt. Brian Pullman responded to a report on Wednesday, April 16 that a suspicious vehicle was seen parked at the end of Newcomb Road. Upon their arrival at the scene, the two officers noticed three male individuals gathered in a wooded area along the street and further observed that they were using marijuana, police said.

Police stopped the males and identified them as 17-year-old village residents. A subsequent search of the juveniles revealed the presence of a "large amount" of marijuana and other drug paraphernalia, police said.

On Thursday, Detective Chris McDowell said the department was currently unable to specify the exact amount of marijuana found, citing the ongoing investigation. McDowell added that among the paraphernalia recovered was rolling papers commonly used to make marijuana cigarettes.

After the initial search, the three were arrested and transported to police headquarters. Each was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. One of the teens was also assessed a possession with intent to distribute charge.

McDowell confirmed that none were charged with being under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance.

After processing, the three teens were released to the custody of parents pending future action in juvenile court.